Dynamic Business

Market internally
Good marketing is not only about outward-facing initiatives, but also about making sure you’re all on the same page internally. Think about it this way, how can you get the boat moving if you are all rowing in different directions? Update your team regularly on your marketing initiatives and even better; get their regular feedback and ideas.

Have a regular, positive presence
When was the last time your business was in the press and was it in the publications your prospects are likely to be reading?

It is worthwhile to think about positioning your company as a thought leader within the industry. Keep your finger on the pulse of industry issues as they arise and don’t be afraid to contribute by commenting in online resources such as blogs, or local papers to get your opinion heard.

Get others to shout your story
One of the best ways to bring a prospect over the line is to have someone else speak for you. Don’t be afraid to ask your customers for a case study or testimonial. This way you can cement your offering with definitive, positive proof for all the times you’ve successfully done it before!

DIY or outsource?
If you have a flair for marketing, promoting your business will be no chore. If it takes too much time and takes you away from your core competency, get someone to help you. There are plenty of marketing companies or contractors, who will specialise in your type of business.

Marketing is not necessarily about complicated strategies or time-consuming tasks but rather smartly building on what you already have and being aware of the things to watch. If you lay a solid, measurable foundation, track back to business objectives and keep it simple, there is no reason why you shouldn’t raise your business’ profile and scoot ahead of the game.

-Sharon Williams is managing director of Taurus Marketing (www.taurusmarketing.com.au). You can watch her on Kochie’s Business Builders on Sunday mornings on Channel 7.

Ingredients for eating your own cooking
A checklist on the tools of marketing to consider

• Start with planning and create your business and marketing plan. You can’t hit the bullseye if you can’t see it
• Market research
• Direct marketing
• Case studies and testimonials
• Branding
• Advertising
• Expos and seminars
• Events for your customers and prospects
• Sales promotion
• PR profile
• Database management
• Christmas, New Year, Valentine’s Day, Easter, Australia Day, or any major wins for your company all are good excuses to reconnect with your clients
• Look at your competition. What are they doing/not doing?
• Customer service
• Telesales
• Website strategy

Seeking to promote your business? Create your free Australian business listing with Dynamic Search business directory – Sister site of Dynamic Business.